BLUF
Modi's visit to Sydney strengthens Australia-India commitment for an inclusive region. Defence cooperation, trade, and the Quad are important ongoing issues. The challenge is integrating India as a strategic partner in Australian foreign policy.Summary
KEY POINTS:
- Australian and Indian relationship has been historically limited, but Modi's visit to Sydney shows commitment to each other.
- India's importance to Australia lies in political ties, regional strategic alignment, and the large Indian diaspora in Australia.
- Critics point out differences in values between the two countries but shared democracy forms a solid foundation for a strategic relationship.
- Australia and India aim for a common set of strategic interests in the Indo-Pacific while addressing the challenges posed by China.
- The partnership focuses on an inclusive region with shared power, deterrence of aggression, and cooperation with Southeast Asian countries.
References
- 24 May Interview with Pawan Luthra, Indian Link | Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs (foreignminister.gov.au)
- 24 May 2023 'Modi is the boss': Australian leader gives India's prime minister a rock star welcome | CNN
- 25 May 2023 Two new agreements to expand Australia-India relationship | SBS Hindi
- 25 May 2023 Penny Wong on PM Modi's Australia visit 2023 - Indian Link